North and South Twin Lakes (Oregon) facts for kids

The North and South Twin Lakes are two very similar natural lakes located in Deschutes County, Oregon. They were formed about 20,000 years ago. This happened when hot, melted rock (called magma) deep underground met with groundwater (water found beneath the Earth's surface). This meeting caused huge steam explosions, which created two large holes in the ground called craters. Over time, these craters filled with water, forming the lakes we see today.

Lake Sizes and Depths

The Twin Lakes are close to each other but have some differences in size and depth.

North Twin Lake

North Twin Lake sits at an elevation of 4,340 feet (1,320 m) above sea level. It is the larger of the two lakes, covering an area of 112 acres (45 ha). North Twin Lake is also deeper, with an average depth of 40 feet (12 m) and a deepest point of 60 feet (18 m).

South Twin Lake

South Twin Lake is slightly lower, at an elevation of 4,334 feet (1,321 m). It is a bit smaller than North Twin Lake, with a surface area of 99 acres (40 ha). South Twin Lake is also shallower, having an average depth of 33 feet (10 m) and a maximum depth of 58 feet (18 m).

Fish and Fishing

Both lakes are popular for fishing, and the types of fish found in them have changed over time.

Fish in South Twin Lake

In 1987, the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife worked to improve fishing in South Twin Lake. They removed certain types of fish that were not native or desirable, often called "rough fish." After this, the lake was regularly stocked with young fish, called fingerlings, and rainbow trout. These efforts have made South Twin Lake a great place to catch trout. The largest rainbow trout ever caught here weighed over 13.5 pounds (6.1 kg)! Most trout caught are about 10 to 14 inches (25 to 36 cm) long, but it's common to find fish up to 18-inch (46 cm).

Fish in North Twin Lake

North Twin Lake also has fish, but at some point before 2008, catfish were illegally put into the lake.

Lake Environment

The Twin Lakes offer a calm and peaceful environment, especially compared to other lakes in the Cascade Lakes area.

Wind and Water Levels

One special thing about the Twin Lakes is that they usually have very calm winds. This is different from many other lakes in the region, which can be quite windy. The water levels in the lakes do not change much throughout the year, staying fairly consistent.

Lake Features

South Twin Lake is almost completely surrounded by trees, which makes it feel very natural and secluded. The only part without trees is a special area with a beach that people can use during the day. The lake also has many areas with underwater plants, known as weedbeds, which provide good hiding spots for fish.

Images for kids

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  Panorama of South Twin Lake